Mleiha National Park in Sharjah has recently completed an extensive ecological assessment, documenting over 100 distinct species of flora and fauna within its protected desert environment. The survey identified more than 20 species of birds, over 10 reptile species, 11 mammal species, 39 species of insects and arachnids, and more than 20 native plant species, reinforcing Mleiha’s position as one of the Arabian Peninsula’s most biodiverse desert ecosystems.
Covering 34.2 square kilometers in Sharjah’s central region, Mleiha National Park serves as a key destination for conservation, ecotourism, and scientific research. Operated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) under an Emiri decree, the park integrates natural preservation with public engagement. Its unique landscape, rich with ancient fossils and archaeological sites, has become a significant component of Sharjah’s broader strategy for environmental sustainability and responsible tourism.
The park’s flora plays a vital role in supporting desert life. More than 20 native plant species have adapted to the harsh arid conditions, contributing to soil stabilization and moisture retention while creating habitats for various animal species. Among the key plants are the Ghaf Tree, Umbrella Thorn Acacia, and Sodom’s Apple, each of which supports the ecosystem by anchoring sand dunes and providing seasonal forage for herbivores. Other plants such as Dune Grass and Arfaj contribute to maintaining the park’s delicate ecological balance.
Mleiha’s mammalian inhabitants include over 11 species well-adapted to desert survival, such as the Arabian Red Fox and Sand Gazelle. The reptile population features more than 10 species, including the Sandfish Skink and the Arabian Horned Viper, both of which are emblematic of desert resilience and adaptation. These species contribute to the complex food webs that sustain the park’s ecosystem.
Birdlife at Mleiha is equally diverse, with over 20 species observed throughout the year. Notable among these are Bonelli’s Eagle, Purple Sunbird, and Common Kestrel, along with various migratory birds that use the park as a seasonal stopover. The variety of avian species enhances the park’s appeal to birdwatchers and researchers alike, offering opportunities for observation and study.
The assessment also recorded 39 species of insects and arachnids, which play essential roles in pollination, soil health, and natural pest control. This group includes the Carpenter Bee, a major native pollinator; the Arabian Fat-Tailed Scorpion, a prominent desert predator; and the Blue Pansy Butterfly, which contributes to seasonal pollination. Other invertebrates such as antlions, ground mantises, and camel spiders further illustrate the intricate ecological networks present in the park.
Visitors to Mleiha can engage with this biodiversity through carefully designed activities, including guided nature trails, fossil tours, and wildlife observation programs. These initiatives aim to promote environmental education and support the UAE’s sustainability objectives while allowing guests to experience the region’s natural heritage firsthand.
Omar Jasim Al Ali, Manager of Mleiha and Strategic Projects, emphasized the park’s dual role in conservation and economic development, stating that Mleiha’s biodiversity not only enriches Sharjah’s natural heritage but also drives eco-tourism and supports livelihoods linked to sustainable development. The park remains open year-round, welcoming nature enthusiasts, researchers, and tourists to explore its diverse and resilient desert ecosystem. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.